Out-of-School Time Programs

Out-of-School Time programs are programs before and/or after school and during school vacation times. These programs provide school aged children with adult supervision and activities in a safe caring environment.

These programs may be run by:

• the school
• local community agencies that serve youth or
• partnerships of both school and community agencies

For many kids, the time that they spend during out-of-school hours is a time for friends, sports, homework, fun and relaxation. But for many it is also a time when they get into trouble because they are home or out on the streets without adult supervision.

Rhode Island communities are developing quality out-of-school time programs in elementary and middle schools.

Help with costs:

• Rite Start helps parents pay for out-of-school time programs. Parents can call 462-3415 for information. Some out-of-school time programs are offered free to families that cannot afford to pay.

Help for schools:

• Schools can get information about developing quality out-of-school time programs from Rhode Island After School Plus Alliance (RIASPA). Contact Sarah Cahill at 331-2869 or sarah.cahill@afterschoolri.org.